Core Insights - The agricultural food system is undergoing a significant transformation due to challenges such as climate change, population growth, and an aging workforce, with youth playing a crucial role in this transition [1][2] Group 1: Youth in Agriculture - Approximately 85% of the global youth population aged 15 to 24 live in low-income and lower-middle-income countries, where agriculture is the primary source of livelihood [1] - About 44% of youth labor is engaged in agriculture, compared to 38% of the adult population, with regional disparities evident [1] - The youth food insecurity rate increased from 16.7% (2014-2016) to 24.4% (2021-2023), particularly severe in Africa [1] Group 2: Economic Potential and Challenges - Over 20% of youth globally are not engaged in education, employment, or training (NEET), with two-thirds being women; integrating this group into economic activities could boost global GDP by 1.4%, equating to $1.5 trillion, with agriculture contributing 45% of this growth [2] - Nearly 400 million rural youth are in areas where agricultural output potential will decline due to climate impacts, with Sub-Saharan Africa being particularly vulnerable [2] Group 3: Strategic Directions - The report outlines three strategic directions: enhancing data collection and analysis on youth participation in agriculture, increasing youth visibility in policy-making, and boosting investment in youth agricultural participation [3] - Specific action recommendations include improving the attractiveness of agricultural careers, investing in rural infrastructure, and supporting youth in digital agriculture [3] - Failure to attract youth to modern agriculture could lead to labor shortages and imbalances in food supply and demand in the future [3]